David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative power of afflictions in his sermon 'Healing Afflictions,' asserting that such challenges can lead us closer to God's Word and deepen our faith. He reflects on his own experiences of pain, recognizing that afflictions can serve as a reminder of our dependence on God and can ultimately be a source of healing. Wilkerson argues that pain should not be viewed as purely negative, as it has historically produced great men of faith. He encourages believers to cast their cares upon God, acknowledging that every blessing comes with its own set of challenges. The sermon highlights the importance of embracing both afflictions and blessings as integral parts of spiritual growth.

John Piper delves into the concept of 'good anxiety' by exploring the emotional states of the heart that are highlighted in the Bible, particularly focusing on the tension between experiencing anxiety and the command to have no anxiety. He examines Paul's expressions of anxiety and fear for the churches, juxtaposed with commands to rejoice always, to understand the legitimacy of such emotions. Piper delves into the idea that God, despite His sovereignty and omniscience, grieves over sin and loss, revealing a capacity to view certain aspects of reality with a narrow focus that excludes other parts, leading to a deeper understanding of human emotions towards sin and destruction.